love, and other catastrophes

14 February 2009

Like everyone else this week, when I think of the fires, I am overwhelmed and horrified and deeply, deeply sad. Like everyone, I have struggled to find words. This is the best I can do.

Here is a suggestion. Today is Valentine’s Day. Find someone you love, anyone. Hold them close, feel their heart and their breathing. Tell them how precious they are, how much you love them. Feel how fragile life is.

And then take the money you would have spent on the corny card, the over-priced dinner, the wilting red roses, the stuffed teddy holding a satin heart, the cupcakes and give it to one of these good causes. Because there are people who need real true love, more than anything, now.

The Red Cross and NAB are running the Victorian bushfires 2009 – Appeal and asking people to donate blood where possible. You can donate at any NAB branch, or by direct debit using: Victoria Bushfire Relief Fund; BSB: 082-001; Account: 860 046 797. You can donate by phone on 1800 811 700, or online here.

You can also donate to the Salvos here, and Myer will match dollar for dollar any donations made to the Salvos in a Myer store.

ABC Melbourne also has a list of other ways you can help, including by donating clothing and caring for pets and other animals.

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